CPS is broke on purpose. For decades, politicians have diverted taxpayer money intended for Chicago's public schools to fund their pet projects. Now that the system is "broke," Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner and CPS interim CEO Jesse Ruiz think that teachers-and the parents of CPS learners- should expect and accept less.

As teachers, we stand for quality public education because every teacher wants to be an effective teacher. As the Chicago Teachers Union, we are bargaining with the city to renew our contract that expires June 30.

We ask for your support as we demand smaller class sizes, school libraries and art classes, and in-school counselors. We want to protect teachers' pensions so the profession will continue to attract and retain the best and brightest.

We ask you to stand with us as we fight for a quality education for every Chicago kid and a quality workplace for every Chicago teacher.